Onion Seeds - Candy

Candy onions are a sweet, mild onion variety, perfect for gardeners seeking a delicious, non-bulbing, large onion that is both versatile and easy to grow. Known for their exceptionally sweet flavor, these onions are ideal for fresh eating, grilling, and even for use in onion rings. Candy onions are favored for their large size, tender texture, and minimal pungency, making them a favorite for both home gardeners and small-scale farmers.

Key Benefits

• Sweet, Mild Flavor: Candy onions offer a very mild, sweet taste, perfect for those who prefer less pungency in their onions.
• Large, Bulbous Size: This variety grows large bulbs, making them excellent for harvesting and storage.
• Versatile in the Kitchen: Ideal for raw dishes like salads, sandwiches, and salsas, as well as for grilling, roasting, or caramelizing.
• Early Harvest: Known for an early maturation, Candy onions can be harvested earlier than many other varieties, which is a great option for a quicker harvest.
• Cold Tolerant: Can be grown in a wide range of climates, including colder regions, with the right care.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Candy onions are large, round, and have smooth white to pale yellow skins. The plants grow upright with strong, green stems.
• Flavor Profile: Very mild and sweet, with almost no sharpness, making them suitable for raw consumption.
• Growth Habit: This variety forms large bulbs with a delicate, sweet flavor. They don’t require long storage time as they have a tendency to bolt in warm climates.
• Size: Candy onions typically grow to about 3–4 inches in diameter with large, firm bulbs.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Planting Time: Start Candy onion seeds indoors in early spring, or sow directly in the garden once the soil warms. Planting in early spring allows for the best harvest in late summer or fall.
• Ideal Temperature: Candy onions prefer cooler growing conditions and thrive in temperatures between 50°F–75°F (10°C–24°C).

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Plant seeds about 1/4 inch deep.
• Spacing: Space seeds 4–6 inches apart, with rows 12–18 inches apart.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0.
• Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth but can tolerate light shade in hotter climates.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Consistent Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, ensuring that the roots receive adequate moisture.
• Watering Method: Water around the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage and to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilization

• Balanced Fertilizer: Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) at planting time and again when the plants are about 6 inches tall for sustained growth.
• Soil Enrichment: Enrich soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting to provide adequate nutrients for healthy growth.

Weeding and Mulching

• Weeding: Regularly weed around the onion plants to prevent competition for nutrients and space.
• Mulching: Mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture, keep soil temperatures steady, and suppress weed growth.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Candy onions may be susceptible to pests like aphids and onion maggots. Use row covers or organic pest control methods like neem oil to protect the plants.
• Diseases: Monitor for fungal diseases such as downy mildew or white rot. Rotate crops yearly and practice good garden hygiene to reduce disease risk.

Harvesting

• Maturity: Candy onions are ready to harvest in 100–110 days, depending on planting time and growing conditions.
• Harvesting Size: Harvest the onions when they reach 3–4 inches in diameter. The tops will naturally begin to fall over and dry out when the onions are ready.
• Method: Gently pull the onions out of the soil, or use a garden fork to lift them from the ground. Allow the onions to dry in the sun for several days before storing.

Storage

• Short-Term Storage: Fresh Candy onions can be stored in the refrigerator for 1–2 weeks if kept in a perforated plastic bag or in a cool, dry place.
• Long-Term Storage: For longer storage, cure the onions by drying them in a warm, well-ventilated area. Once dry, store in a cool, dry location for several months.

Culinary Uses

• Fresh Dishes: Candy onions are excellent raw in salads, sandwiches, salsas, and as garnishes due to their mild, sweet flavor.
• Grilling and Roasting: These onions caramelize beautifully when grilled or roasted, making them a delicious side dish or topping for burgers and steaks.
• Onion Rings: Their mild sweetness makes Candy onions perfect for making crispy, sweet onion rings.
• Sautéing and Stir-Frying: Candy onions can also be sautéed or stir-fried to add flavor without overpowering other ingredients.

Conclusion

Candy onions are a versatile and delicious variety, perfect for gardeners looking for a large, sweet onion that thrives in various climates. Their early harvest, mild flavor, and high yield make them a favorite for both home gardeners and commercial growers. Whether you're using them raw in fresh salads or cooking them up for caramelized toppings, Candy onions will bring a sweet, mild taste to your kitchen.